Pistachio Cake with Cream Cheese Buttercream

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Pistachio Cake with Cream Cheese Buttercream.

1. Step 1

   Start by preheating your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C).

2. Step 2

   While the oven warms up, grab three 8-inch round cake pans and give them a good spray with cooking spray.

3. Step 3

   For an extra layer of protection, line the bottoms with parchment paper and give that a light spray too.

4. Step 4

   Now, let’s get to the fun part! In a food processor, pulse 2 1/2 cups of pistachios until they’re finely ground—this should take about 10 to 15 quick pulses.

5. Step 5

   In a mixing bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups of the ground pistachios with flour, baking powder, salt, and baking soda.

6. Step 6

   Whisk everything together until it’s well blended, then set this mixture aside.

7. Step 7

   Don’t forget to save the remaining ground pistachios for later; they’ll add a delightful touch to your cake.

8. Step 8

   Next, in a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat together softened butter and white sugar on medium-high speed until the mixture is light and fluffy—this should take about 3 minutes.

9. Step 9

   Once that’s achieved, add in the egg whites and continue mixing on high speed until everything is well combined, which should take another 2 minutes.

10. Step 10

    Now, it’s time to add some flavor! Mix in the sour cream, vanilla extract, and almond extract until everything is fully incorporated, about 1 minute.

11. Step 11

    Gradually add the flour mixture on low speed, mixing just until combined—this should take around 2 minutes.

12. Step 12

    Finally, stir in the milk and a splash of food coloring until everything is blended together, about 1 minute.

13. Step 13

    Now, it’s time to bring your cake to life! Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans.

14. Step 14

    Give each pan a gentle tap on the countertop to level the batter—this little step helps ensure even baking.

15. Step 15

    Pop the pans into your preheated oven and bake for 22 to 24 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

16. Step 16

    Once baked, let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes.

17. Step 17

    Carefully run a knife around the edges to loosen them, then invert the cakes onto a cooling rack.

18. Step 18

    Allow them to cool completely for about 30 minutes.

19. Step 19

    While your cakes are cooling, let’s whip up a luscious cream cheese buttercream.

20. Step 20

    In a stand mixer, beat together cream cheese and butter on medium-high speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3 minutes.

21. Step 21

    Gradually add powdered sugar in 1/2-cup increments, mixing on medium-low speed until everything is fully incorporated—this will take around 4 minutes.

22. Step 22

    Add in the vanilla extract and mix until fluffy, about 2 minutes.

23. Step 23

    Once your cakes are completely cool, it’s time to assemble! Place one layer on a serving plate or cake stand.

24. Step 24

    Spread 1 cup of that delicious buttercream on top and sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of ground pistachios.

25. Step 25

    Add the second layer and repeat the process with another cup of buttercream and another tablespoon of pistachios.

26. Step 26

    Finally, place the third layer on top and spread the remaining buttercream evenly over the top and sides of the cake, smoothing it out with a spatula.

27. Step 27

    To let those flavors meld beautifully, chill the assembled cake in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.

28. Step 28

    After chilling, take the cake out and spread any remaining buttercream over the top and sides, smoothing it out once more.

29. Step 29

    For a fun finishing touch, use a small offset spatula to create a lovely spiral pattern on top, and gently press the reserved ground pistachios into the sides of the cake.

30. Step 30

    Now, slice and serve this delightful creation immediately, or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to enjoy.

31. Step 31

    If you’ve chilled it, let the cake come to room temperature before serving to bring out all those wonderful flavors.

32. Step 32

    Enjoy every bite of your delicious pistachio cake!.